Prepare for Coming Heat Wave in Umpqua Valley

Beginning the week of July 24, Southern Oregon and the Umpqua Valley will experience a regional heat wave that is expected to last a week.

According to data from the National Weather Service in Medford, high temperatures will be in the mid to upper 90’s, with a likelihood of some days being over 100 degrees. Low temperatures will be in the 60’s, but there is a good chance the lows may actually be higher. When that happens, there is less overnight relief from the sweltering temperatures, making conditions more difficult to recover from.

Temperatures are expected to be even warmer in the Rogue Valley and surrounding areas of Medford. There will also be an increased risk of wildfires at the same time, due to low humidity and high temperatures. At the same time, water temperatures of local rivers and creeks are predicted to remain cold, so use caution when using a river to cool off.

The Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians’ Public Safety Administration are working to ensure the community is aware of dangers associated with consistently high temperatures over a long period of time. Here are some tips to consider when temperatures turn extreme:

• If you have air conditioning, keep windows and doors closed at all times. This will help the AC unit run much more efficiently.
• If you do not have AC, open windows at night when it cools off and let cooler air inside, then keep the house closed during the day. If you can trap cooler air at night, most insulated homes will retain at least some of the cooler temps throughout the day.
• Use a fan to circulate the air.
• Drink plenty of water!
• Stay out of direct sunlight. Temps like this will create heat-related medical issues much faster.
• If you find yourself overheated and sweating profusely, this is indication of the onset of heat exhaustion. Get out of the sun and take measures to get cooled off, get in a cool bath or shower and drink more fluids.
• If you find that you or someone near you is overheating, and they are no longer sweating, have shortness of breath, rapid pulse, and possible cognitive issues like getting confused, these are signs of heat stroke. Heat Stroke is a serious medical issue that will require immediate attention. Call 911 and use cool compresses on the head and neck, in the armpits and behind the knees. This will help cool the patient’s blood while waiting for medics to arrive.
• If you have any question regarding the difference, seek medical assistance.